1989 Honda Civic GL review from UK and Ireland

Body work a little patchy (mostly due to neglect).

Drivers seat has a hole in it (made worse by family dog!) and tends to drop back if sat on too hard.

Clutch has been replaced (no necessary, but needed it eventually).

A few rattles in the interior (some caused by the dog chewing seals).

Car has 16 valves, twin carburettors, power steering, electric windows, mirrors and sunroof, wishbone suspension and runs on unleaded petrol.

This was a family car passed on to me quite recently, so has previously been incredibly well serviced and not thrashed at all, thus the engine is in impeccable working order. Still gets great fuel economy about 45mpg max with sensible driving, 35+ with thrashing.

Now I've got my hands on it I can finally see what it does. Hit 120mph in it without too much complaint and I do wonder if it will go further, but I am too scared to test it with all the speed cameras on our roads these days. Acceleration is impressive, generally pulls as good as most "hot hatches" out there, but you do have to know how to push it and how to handle it to get the best out of it (I am still learning with it, but at times it really does throw you back in your seat).

Handling wise it feels like a sports car. The low nature of it as standard coupled with the bucket-like seats make the driving position quite exhilarating and comfortable at the same time. Its very easy to push round corners at high speeds and holds the road really well. I feel very confident in its ability cornering and don't feel the need to pull off the gas in case it slips.

The cabin is comfortable for driver and front passenger, back seats are a little squashed due to my long legs and the far back driving position I like, and they only have lap belts. No airbags anywhere to be seen (but on a car that old what do you expect!). Radio is still original and is really starting to show its age. Install speakers aren't much to shout about either.

Dealerships tend to be expansive, but you get what you pay for and they are very professional and thorough and do all work to the highest standards. Have generally had the car self serviced over the years (hence the neglect to bodywork) but have had cause to go to the dealers.

Generally, 13 years down the line and 134,000 miles later the engine is in perfect working order and will keep going for years (and miles) to come. Comfortable driving position and great acceleration with a top speed suited to legal limits, it's a great car suitable for petrol head and families alike.